Jane Lorraine (Kaeding) Ransom

Jane Lorraine Kaeding Ransom was born on December 12, 1945. Daughter, sister, aunt, teacher, principal and friend extraordinaire left this world on October 9, 2025.  Jane passed away at Green Acres in Ionia while under while under the care of Hospice, Staff and dear friends (especially her cherished "Lunch Buddies," Mary Jean, Roger and Jim) where she has been a resident for over two years.  True to form, Jane took on her health challenges with a stubborn grace, always looking out for others regardless of her own struggles.  Jane was born to Robert and Betty Kaeding, raised and remained a contributing member of the Ionia community for her entire life. After teaching for 28 years at Jefferson school, she was named principal at Boyce School for five years before retiring in 2001.  She served on numerous committees and throughout her tenure and long after (Silver Slate Award Recipient).  She volunteered for many years along sider her good friend, Joan Petereson, at the gate for home football and basketball games.  She continued to be available to sub in any role, serve on advisory and millage committees and stepped in as a willing mentor when needed.  She also volunteered at the Sparrow Ionia gift shop.  The relationships she forged with students, staff, families, friends and even strangers made incalculable differences in many lives. 

Jane was a fervent reader, a competitive golfer and was never known to back down from a challenge. Jane had high expectations for herself and those who were brave enough to take her on.  She was loyal to a fault with family and friends. Surviving siblings; Marcia (Tom) Koppers and family and Kurt (Stacy) Kaeding and special nieces, Erin and Robin.  Cousin; Sue Hicks and family; and close friends; Elaine Caswell and Karen Balice-Gregory.  Honorable mention goes to her beloved canine companions, Abby and Lucy. 
The void she leaves is immeasurable.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Green Acres, 2550 Commerce Lane, Ionia, Michigan with a luncheon immediately following.  There will be a visitation at Lehman Funeral Home, 220 Rich Street, Ionia, Michigan, on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Please consider a memorial contribution in Jane’s name to the Ionia Community Library Foundation, 126 E. Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846.  Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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